Multi-Symbol Keyboard with Finger Detection for Compact Input
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional data entry methods, such as QWERTY keyboards, are not well-suited for mobile environments due to their size and require both hands for efficient operation, while alternative methods like mini-keyboards, voice recognition, and handwriting recognition face inefficiencies and usability issues.
Innovation Solution
A data entry device with a multi-symbol main key region that uses assisting keys to select individual symbols or functions through combinations of keystrokes, employing sensors to identify actuating fingers or objects, allowing for efficient one-handed operation and compact design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If QWERTY keyboard is used for data entry, then typing efficiency is improved, but device size increases and portability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The keyboard is segmented into two functional parts: main keys for primary input and assisting keys for secondary functions. This segmentation allows the keyboard to maintain full QWERTY functionality while reducing overall size by eliminating redundant key structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The assisting keys serve multiple functions by working in combination with main keys to access various symbols and characters. This multi-functionality reduces the total number of keys needed while maintaining comprehensive input capability.
2Volume of moving object
If mini-keyboard is used to reduce size, then portability is improved, but key size decreases and usability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Different regions of the keyboard have different characteristics: main keys are larger and positioned for primary input operations, while assisting keys are smaller and positioned for secondary operations. This local differentiation optimizes both size and usability.
3Volume of moving object
If unconventional keyboard layout is used to reduce size, then device size is improved, but learning difficulty increases and ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The assisting keys are pre-positioned and pre-labeled to correspond with specific main keys, creating a predictable and learnable pattern. This preliminary arrangement of key relationships reduces the cognitive load required to learn the layout.
4Productivity
If full-size virtual keyboard is projected, then typing efficiency is improved, but space requirement increases and portability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The keyboard utilizes three-dimensional space by incorporating assisting keys on the side surface of the device, effectively adding a vertical dimension to the key layout. This allows full functionality in a compact footprint.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient one-handed data entry with reduced key size and number, improving usability in mobile environments by allowing users to select symbols or functions with minimal keystrokes, enhancing portability and user experience.
Implementation Method 1
employing sensors to identify actuating fingers or objects
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and method of inputting data for an electronic data entry device are provided. In one embodiment, main keys on a keyboard of a device are used in which the main keys have multiple symbols or functions associated therewith, and one or more assisting keys of the device are used to select between the symbols or functions on the main keys. In a further embodiment, identification of an input object such as the particular fingers of a user that are used to actuate a key region is performed. The symbol associated with the actuated key region and the finger (or other input object) used is determined. Various types of sensors and recognition technology are implemented in order to identify fingers (or other input objects) in various embodiments.